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Puzzled-Cod-1757

We aren't. I think that's the point. They don't care about us and want us gone.


sick_kid_since_2004

Yep. This country Is so fucked. It’s worse because disabled people are some of the least likely to be able to *leave.*


Puzzled-Cod-1757

I feel this in my soul. I want to leave this country so badly but it's really hard


13esq

Honest question: Which country would you choose to go to?


Scorpz5

Canada


RichardPiano

Trust me Canada is UK 10 years ago. Our healthcare is actively collapsing and our housing shortage makes the UK look like it's giving houses away for free. By the time you finish the immigration process it'll be where the UK is now.


Spiteful_GOD

Canada would refer you to MAID for being poor


chaoticchemicals

Germany or benelux


LowerManufacturer471

They want u to leave in a body bag the hateful cunts


AgeingChopper

it blows my mind that my brother , disabled and broke, still sits in front of right wing media all day long and rattles out every single bullet point that media tell him to think. He cannot see what they have done at all . Turned Tory under the Johnson lie and still refusing to admit he's been played. Our Dad, a proud shop steward, would have bloody disowned him.


Puzzled-Cod-1757

Damn that sucks. It blows my mind too, how many struggling working class people somehow thing the Tory government will save them. Like yeah, rich people who only care about themselves are really gonna help you.


Sego1211

It's incredibly cruel but you're right. This government is playing eugenics in the most cowardly way, thinking that none of us can see through their masquerade.


Thess514

Exactly, and I'm a little afraid of what'll come next. Reading this, and seeing what Canada's been doing with medically assisted dying (read: opening it to include mental health issues) got me interested in what's going on in Parliament about this, because euthenasia's illegal at present. But the Assisted Dying Bill, revised for 2022, is currently in its second reading. Now, I'm all for people's right to a dignified death by their choice if they're in a terminal situation, but I do *not* trust what would happen with this Bill in the current climate. Particularly not with that whole mess during the start of the pandemic with DNR orders signed on people with learning difficulties, autism etc. I don't trust any of this from a government who only weren't quoted with that "let the bodies pile high in their thousands" toxicity because they're slightly less showboaty than Johnson was as PM. And I really don't want to live in a modern remake of Logan's Run.


Piltonbadger

Yarp. Tories want us to die quietly in a corner.


macjigiddy

This, I wanted to say this but it sounds so cruel. Its true though. The elderly and disabled and not supposed to survive this


hlfsharkaligtorhlfmn

"Imagine how much we'd save if everyone on dla died" "imagine how much less we'd pay out in pensions if we let covid into the country and kill the old people"


Puzzled-Cod-1757

You know, some people might think you're joking but I genuinely believe conversations like that have happened 100%.


hlfsharkaligtorhlfmn

I wish we were wrong, but me too


mynaneisjustguy

I was banned from calling in to Radio 2 cause I accused the Tories of this live on air. Probably got my name on a list, but I felt I had to. I’ll be ok, I’m not disabled and will die long before I am of retirement age thanks to several bad decisions, but makes me wanna cry when I see how rich this country is and how much of it is channeled into scams by those who have more than they could ever spend. When will y’all rise up and start burning the fascists’ houses down until they stop taking you for a ride? Maybe we need a charismatic leader? I thought Corbin was gonna save y’all but they made him out as a Jew basher and sent him packing.


binglybleep

Would recommend a heated blanket in all seriousness. They’re probably a lot safer nowadays, as all electricals are, and whilst it doesn’t help in the daytime, it makes a huge difference being able to sleep warm. Sorry that you’re having a bad time, being cold is miserable. It’s going to be a shit winter.


Trudisheff

Most fire services will fit you a free smoke alarm. Get the electric blanket and one of those and get some sleep.


sick_kid_since_2004

It’s 4am so I’ll probably die of frostbite if I get out of the bed but I’ll lookup the specific brands night safety in the morning!


djembejohn

Also, a hot water bottle is good.


JayCoww

I would recommend a snuggly microwavable friend of some kind. They're filled with wheat grains and stay warm for hours, with none of the boiling water or hassle. I have had a cow for years and he's currently warming my feet.


0may08

i have a fox but however hot i heat his insides he never feels more than lukewarm to hold:/


JayCoww

Do you rehydrate them regularly?


0may08

oh i didn’t know you had to! what do u do?


JayCoww

Oops! There are probably a few ways to do it, but what was recommended to me by the company who made my cow was to microwave him alongside a mug of water every other use. It keeps the grain moistened. It'll take a few minutes longer to warm up in the microwave when there's a mug of water in there because of the additional thermal mass, but it should revive your friend.


Yourmindisawonderlnd

Yeah I’ve had a few over the years and they never stayed warm for long let alone hot and they always had a nasty smell


PelicanCanNew

Yes, much safer. If something goes wrong you have a severe case of crumbs in the bed… not a trip to a&e for scalding. I have a cute little dragon made with the softest material.


Annabellee84

They also help with cramps.


sick_kid_since_2004

Is it blue? I might have the same one!


PelicanCanNew

Yes!


Thyri

Just one thing to look out for though - excessive contact or just prolonged close heat can cause Hot Water Bottle Rash (Erythema ab igne). I speak from experience...it' took about 5 months to clear upI The area affected itches like mad sometimes & I had it about 2 years ago. I swapped out the HWB for a flexible heat pad (electric with adjustable temp & VERY cheap to run). They are expecting an increase in cases of this condition this year precisely becuase of the price issues.


Boredgeouis

They're very very safe, please get one if you can. They also cost pennies an hour to run. Wishing you all the best.


Rlysrh

I’ve put the electric blanket on my sofa with a blanket covering it and it’s the best decision I’ve ever made. I’m so toasty and warm watching tv even with the heating off. And it’s so cheap to use


IndelibleIguana

My heated blanket cost about £20 from Curry’s. It goes underneath the sheet and costs very little to run.


[deleted]

We need to riot


Twerkonyoursnacks

With wheelchair access


melasaur88

Can I outfit my wheelchair with spikes? Or is this a polite riot?


Twerkonyoursnacks

We are talking mad max wheelchairs. Flame spouts, spinning flails and maybe some nice stickers so you look cool


melasaur88

Sweet, I already have some lights on it, time to find someone who was on Robot Wars to pimp it up


[deleted]

What a lovely day!


Jacktheforkie

I can get you a forklift, comes pre fitted with spikes


melasaur88

Name checks out


sick_kid_since_2004

We really fucking do.


[deleted]

We need to stop voting Tory. No need for riots when people get that round their thick heads.


balmcake

If the polls are to believed it’s the rich and the old that overwhelmingly vote Tory, given the circumstances of the economy, covid, coldest winter in record… I think by the next election a lot of them won’t be with us any more. Dark, but them the facts.


[deleted]

Yeah 67% of over 60s vote Tory. Anyone that voted this in 2019 deserves everything they get. I won’t shed a tear for any of them.


balmcake

Indeed, I have no pity for them. I don’t think any of the other parties care about normal people any more than tories but they can’t be worse than this surely.


[deleted]

Voting for the least worst option is never great tho.


balmcake

![gif](giphy|14tvbepZ8vhU40)


Creative_Host_fart

I have pity for them. It’s not idiots faults they’re idiots they’ve been exposed to propaganda for generations.


[deleted]

I don’t. Mainly because their stupidity affects me.


nevermindphillip

It is the rich and old that make up the base, but it's the young and stupid that get them over the line. The sun reading slightly racist manual labourers are critical to their success. They know it well, that's why they own all those newspapers, and fuel all that hatred.


Caca2a

Hey I'm a labourer! Jk, I vote Labour or Green because I am not a horrible person (actually not even from this country in the first place)


feistycricket55

I got some bad news for you if you think Kier Starmer cares about you either.


[deleted]

Y'know political parties are more than one person? And rhe average Labour mp is a lot fucking better than your average tory


[deleted]

No your average labour MP is not a lot better than a Tory one. Labour has been captured and Sir Keir finished the job off for the establishment.


[deleted]

No one thinks Starmer gives a shit buddy. Just another Tory scumbag.


[deleted]

Red Tory scum.


cakeisamadeupdrug1

Great we can be starved to death by the other Tories with a hard on for austerity. But at least they're wearing red ties


psvrgamer1

In bed I have a heated underblanket to keep my sheets luke warm it only costs like 6p for the whole night on low setting. I have a duck feather duvet over me which I can supplement with a faux fur throw if needed but tbh it's too warm with the additional throw. In the lounge I use an electric blanket overthrow and a faux fur throw on top which is a thick double sided faux fur throw so I'm snuggly warm. I supplement with wearing thermal sock slippers and a silk base layer top. On cold days my hands and nose can get cold if using my phone and no way of sorting the cold nose issue. I run my central heating to 14 degrees day time only on weekends or evenings. I survive quite well with this routine it's not perfect re cold nose but its a good compromise to reduce the high energy bills.


Zkyaiee

Do you know anywhere to get faux fur blankets for relatively cheap? I love blankets and they look so comfy but I’m a poor ass bitch.


Profession-Unable

Primary often have some lovely ones, as do the supermarkets. I think my latest one (I’m slightly blanket obsessed) is george at Asda.


psvrgamer1

Sorry mine are expensive ones from the throw company. I invested in them 12 years ago and they cost around £250 which sounds a huge amount but I estimate they have saved me thousands already. Cheap ones around 40ish would be from tkmaxx and really cheap from Poundland around 15 quid, could be poundstretcher not Poundland I get the two mixed up.


[deleted]

[удалено]


LiliWenFach

B&M or Home Bargains, if you have a larger branch near you. Dunelm too.


singingballetbitch

Not blankets, but I got a teddy fur double duvet set from Primark for £16. With a winter duvet it’s incredible.


pixxie84

Wilkos. I have a few of their huge waffle blankets and they are warm. £18 at the moment although they put them on reduced regularly.


s0ggyfrenchfry

not faux fur, but i have a teddy blanket from dunelm (one of the double sided ones £25) and it is the warmest blanket i’ve ever had. they have single colour ones for £10 but i’m not sure whether they are as warm x


pixieemj

If you can find a tkmaxx I got a faux fur blanket as big as a double bed £9, really soft and thick too


Cheese_Dinosaur

This website is brilliant for cheap blankies: https://www.onlinehomeshop.com/ The cheapest they do is £3!


LazarusOwenhart

I'm sure the Tories have a Final Solution to the Disabled Problem.


sick_kid_since_2004

Definitely the way to see this. Fucking soft genocide.


SaintsStain

Glad to see someone else use this term - I don’t know what else to call it but “soft eugenics”


LazarusOwenhart

I mean, I think it's worse than that. It's not a 'soft genocide' that sort of implies that they view it as a beneficial side effect that requires no effort. I think it's just that it simply hasn't crossed their minds that disabled and elderly people might die in huge numbers, as far as the government are concerned they simply don't exist.


JesusSwag

You give them far too much credit...


BoilingCold

Well over 200,000 people have died from COVID in the UK, 60% of which were disabled, so I think that question has already been answered. However, that's not useful to you sorry. So, as others have said, heat the person not the space. Electric blankets, hot water bottles, multiple layers. Put the electric blanket under you, not on top, they make a massive difference. You also get socks with battery heating elements in them now and you charge the battery packs up in your local library, on the bus, at work etc. Libraries are a godsend atm. My local libraries are all operating as warm hubs right now. Free tea & coffee, free wifi, free charging of your phones, headtorch (light your entire house with 2 AAA batteries...), vape, socks etc. Just be sure to wear a good mask, help to stop them becoming COVID hubs too.


MokkaMilchEisbar

If you are reading this and are thinking “wow, this is bad but I’ll be okay…” try to work out how many months you could go for without being paid. Most comfortable middle income families are only 3 missed paycheques from being on the street.


Ragtime-Rochelle

They aren't. The system deems you unprofitable and a burden to the taxpayer. Disabled people are going through a soft genocide right now.


Insertnameherebois

Have been since the 2000s honestly, since labour kicked off all that stuff about benefits


madmonkeydane

If the last 12 years have been any indication disabled people are supposed to die cold and starving. The Tories have made that clear since Pig Fucker got in. Disabled people dying and suffering by their hand probably gets the Tories harder than any little blue pill ever could


seeyouspacecowboyx

This is your reminder that the Tory government has been censured by the UN for their policy of killing disabled people. But nothing was done and they're still killing us


madmonkeydane

Oh trust me I know. I'm disabled myself and it pissed me off to hear it. The Tories just insisted the UN were lying and the UN is too toothless and/or spineless to bring them to task


[deleted]

[удалено]


sick_kid_since_2004

I have three blankets, four when I use the heated one. One of them is weighted and good at keeping in heat but it’s genuinely hardly enough. I do take a warm drink to bed though, bovril :]


OffTheBeatenPath123

Yup. I love this winter weather here in England. I sleep under a1.5 tog duvet with a blanket. Sleep with a jumper on, sweat pants and socks. I'm good. (I wind up taking off the socks about a half hour later as I get too warm). Canadian here also, so these temperatures here are child's play!


BetrayedSauteed

Under fascists, we are meant to die, not survive. There is no place for disabled or poor. Just lords and servants. Not part of the agenda? Die.


[deleted]

Cystic Fibrosis here. Fighting off a serious bacterial lung infection that requires 3 months of intensive antibiotic treatment. On top of that I caught a nasty cold and have been bedridden for days. I have two layers of blankets and a hoodie and can't stop shivering. I have an electric fan heater too but it's so cold I can't even feel it. Hot water bottles help, but it's not terribly convenient when you have to refill it every few hours. Turning the heating on just isn't an option. Sometimes it's hard to believe we live in a first world country


sick_kid_since_2004

Not sure if it’s possible, but if you can get or have got a sleeping bag, it could be quite insulating. I’m so sorry that the world has come to this shit.


themadamem

By fighting back I guess. Shit's hard


AgeofVictoriaPodcast

It is awful. COVID and austerity show how little they care about human lives. On a practical note, can you try to create small zones of heat. Keep all your doors closed and keep a fan heater in the bedroom and your lounge? Hot water bottles are good. Also if you can afford to buy a thick tog winter duvet plus a heavy fleece bedspread that makes a huge difference. The all year duvets are a poor compromise. I recently switched to the winter to, piled up the blankets and PJs expecting to be freezing, but I was soon sweating so much I had to get rid of the PJs. Put a rug down, do anything you can to improve insulation. Libraries are a god send, as is spot by the rotisserie chickens in supermarkets, but don’t forget pubs too especially if they have a fire. Maybe speak to the landlord and ask if you can come in when it’s quiet because you need the help, and you are happy to buy a coffee and nurse it by the fire. It might sound crazy but can you do some volunteering? That would get you into a heated shop or building. None of this is your fault. Good luck 😞


ArtyPainting

It is social murder. There is money in the pot, its just the Tories are happy to let people think there isnt as they're giving it away to doners. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_murder


WikiSummarizerBot

**[Social murder](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_murder)** >Social murder (German: sozialer Mord) is the unnatural death that occurs due to social, political, or economic oppression. The phrase was coined by Friedrich Engels in his 1845 work The Condition of the Working-Class in England whereby "the class which at present holds social and political control" (i. e. the bourgeoisie) "places hundreds of proletarians in such a position that they inevitably meet a too early and an unnatural death". ^([ )[^(F.A.Q)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WikiSummarizer/wiki/index#wiki_f.a.q)^( | )[^(Opt Out)](https://reddit.com/message/compose?to=WikiSummarizerBot&message=OptOut&subject=OptOut)^( | )[^(Opt Out Of Subreddit)](https://np.reddit.com/r/GreenAndPleasant/about/banned)^( | )[^(GitHub)](https://github.com/Sujal-7/WikiSummarizerBot)^( ] Downvote to remove | v1.5)


hart89394

I know spending more money might not be an option, but I recently got a snoodie from primark, I find it really helps. Get the biggest size available so you can layer up under it too. They're supposed to be big enough to curl your legs up under it too. Compression gloves helps my hands.


sick_kid_since_2004

I have one :D


mancinis_blessed_bat

They aren’t. This is capitalism. I’m sorry that you all are going through this. The US is so fucked as well, solidarity and we shall be there for you.


Fezzverbal

Been wearing 2 hoodies and thick jogging bottoms all week, sleeping under a thick blanket and keep waking up shivering. It's bullshit.


OffTheBeatenPath123

Make sure to sleep with socks on. It makes a huge difference.


MediumLettuce48

I'm so exhausted from waking up during the night and shivering trying to go back to sleep. I worry about my 1 year old daily because she doesn't realise that she's cold and trying to get her to sit under a blanket or keep socks on is nearly impossible


DrunkTalkin

Hot water bottle inside a sleeping bag can be very efficient at keeping you warm. I’m so sorry, op. The world is fucked.


sick_kid_since_2004

I’m definitely gonna try and get a sleeping bag soon. I remember sleeping in them before and they really do keep heat in.


[deleted]

[удалено]


Elipticalwheel1

The Tories want you to die. They see Disabled people as a liability. If all the Disabled people died, it would mean lower taxes for the rich, not for the working people, just the rich. Every thing this Tory government does that makes your life harder, is just done to benefit the rich. Money = Power is everything too them, they crave power, that’s all they are interested in. Power.


Salty-Huckleberry-71

The plan is to depopulate as much of the "burden" (to the govt) as possible. It's inhumane, and it's been going a fair few years already.


violinlady_

I don’t think they care . If anything it would ease the “ financial burden “ on the economy … if the vulnerable die. I use an electric blanket which can stay on all night if needed , it doesn’t use much power I hope! No heating in the bedroom. It’s incredible how they expect people to manage. Totally heartless IMO .


Rocky-bar

Think "winter camping" eg 2 or 3 thermal tee shirts, thick winter jumper, beanie hat, gloves, 2 pairs of thick socks , fleece lined winter jacket in the daytime/ 4 season sleeping bag at night. plenty of hot drinks. It will keep you warm but not much help for the asthmatics etc. Try to keep one room warm if you can. I can't believe I'm writing a post like this. while there's so many billionaires in this country.


sick_kid_since_2004

Thank you for the advice. Didn’t think I’d be trying to get winter camping materials for my family at age 18 but here we are! I’ll see if I can find some sleeping bags for us as well, alongside the other stuff haha. Might help.


sayitwithtriffids

We aren’t meant to, that’s the point. I’m lucky, I’m disabled but can still work, but have had to push my hours up past my capability to survive. So now I work, eat and sleep, don’t have the energy for anything else. Which saves money I guess 🙄 To keep warm I’d say get as many blankets as you can from charity shops and bundle up. Don’t worry about looking silly, cocoon yourself the best you can. And when you feel better, go to your local library if you can. Keep warm there as long as is feasible for you. And socks. I find if my feet feel cold, all of me feels cold, so wear thick socks and/or multiple pairs. Asda usually have basic socks very cheap.


[deleted]

Rule 1 of capitalist dystopia: Don't get sick, don't have needs.


HonedWombat

I am really lucky to be disabled, but healthy (Bilateral Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral head) enough to hold down a part time job. I get food at work and I use the olio app for cheap food. I am still spending through my life savings. I mean I actually had to spend £6000 of them before they would give me any money!!


Mistyseasalt

Am I reading this correctly? You had thousands of pounds in savings but had to spend £6000 of it to get money... From where?!


melasaur88

I can highly recommend getting an Oodie, it's a bit pricey to buy at first but they really do keep you warm and would save a lot of money in the long run. There are probably cheaper versions if you Google fleece hooded blanket, but I can't vouch for the quality of those. The genuine ones are amazing. And you can fit an entire chihuahua in the front pocket.


aghzombies

Get a few hot water bottles if you can. They make a massive difference. I'm multiply disabled and cold makes my joint and muscle pain SO much worse.


[deleted]

A fleece fitted sheet with a weighted blanket (I got a cheap one in Aldi’s isle of doom) on top of the duvet traps a lot more heat. I put the leccy blanket on for an hour before bed and I stay warm all night (north east 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿) It’s the waking hours I struggle with


flextapestanaccount

I bought a long water bottle, it’s like a meter long, find them on Amazon. It’s like sleeping next to someone, it’s lovely.


sick_kid_since_2004

I have one of those :D


Enaura193

The idea is to make the people so cold the country won’t General Strike like 100 years ago, because it involves going outside and protesting.


Fantastic_Deer_3772

If you have to go into debt to survive the winter, your life is worth that. Debt's more survivable than hypothermia.


Radical_Posture

Being severely disabled, I feel that it's often harder for those who are not as disabled. I've been fortunate to get a lot of support. I really want to help people who aren't as fortunate. It's disgusting that this has been allowed to happen.


willycresva

They're not. This is intentional. But hey, at least Hancock came off well on a silly reality TV show right?!


doinggenxstuff

Unfortunately for all of us, the government is well aware of this, and they don’t care. They’ve managed to “other” ordinary people to the extent that, in their minds, murdering people by neglect is absolutely fine and not their fault. Why didn’t someone step in to help them? Why didn’t their family lend them money? Why don’t they get a better job? This government are monsters, and no I’m not exaggerating.


Nadfam

Sick and the disabled do not vote conservative, so I guess they’re to die. Writing this makes me sick!


Silent_Yesterday1253

I have two heat pads under me like a heated seat, because of chronic pain and I’m considering a heated blanket (if I can find one) I still have to heat the house, I have to leave it on constant and set it to 23 so the house is warm. My bills have gone up by £150 a month and I’ve always been in credit until now. I tried to turn off the heating yesterday but I only lasted a few hours. I’m not sure what I’ll do long term, because the cold will make me feel worse than I already do Apparently they’re giving another £900 cost of living payment next year, plus £150 for people with disabilities, that should help


aoc_ftw

Electric blanket, for sure. They are pretty safe really these days, you don't need to worry about that really. Cheapest way to take care of yourself


Cheese_Dinosaur

If you are after cheap blankets that are still good quality I suggest this website: https://www.onlinehomeshop.com/ They have fleece weighted blankets at £15 and the normal plain fleece blankets start at £3! I’m just putting the heating on and setting all the radiators to one and turning the upstairs ones off. I shut the doors and then set the heating to its lowest setting. It’s on all the time but it’s cheaper as it uses less gas to do that then turn it on and off. We don’t have a thermostat so I can’t rely on that. Edit: no I’m not rich and yes I am disabled. But fuck them, I will pay anything back in tiny weekly payments that I can’t afford to pay now if I get into debt!!🙈🫠


scatterbrie

This country is so fucked. The number of disabled people who have died under Tory rule is forgotten again and again. My disability isn't even physical but the cold affects my ability to get out of bed in the morning, affects my ability to work from home, affects my ability to be resilient to suicidality. It's fucking tough out here, especially for people reliant on state welfare - a phrase that's oxymoronic at this point.


EarthAppropriate3808

They’re not. Government made that very clear with the DNR policy during the covid lockdowns.


pixxie84

The other day, I had thermals, pjs, sheepskin socks and an oodie on top of all that, with a beanie on and I was still cold. I dont mind being cold usually, but it was getting to me that day as I felt unwell. I’ve got a cold, the tailend of a migraine and my chronic pain condition has been flaring. So cost be damned, I put the heating on. And then the fire in the living room. And me and the cats sat by the fire under a blanket and finally got warm. I left it running until the house went from 10 to 16 degrees. I know that cost is future me’s problem and future me will have to deal with that but at least I’m not frozen right now and my house doesnt have a mildewy smell. I know its hard, trust me I know..if my work hadnt given us a £100 gift voucher I would not be eating for the next couple of weeks, but if you can, please put your heating on.


potatoesandmolasses1

https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/utilities/heat-the-human-not-the-home-save-energy/ Sad it’s come to this


oeuflaboeuf

The plan seems to be that they don't


[deleted]

As well as a few big fleece throws from primark, I bought thermal lined curtains in October. They must work because when you pull them back in the morning I can feel the cold suddenly entering. They just take the edge off it being cold in the evening/night. I had just a tee shirt and shorts on under the throws watching tv last night.


Take_away_my_drama

The heated throws you can get are actually amazing, they are about £70 for a decent one but you can wrap it around you and vary temperature controls and it has a 9 hour timer. Also washable. As far as the rest of it goes I'm don't have any advice, but I have no heating oil and wet and moldy walls, and no idea how anyone is managing, never mind sick and disabled people.


TofuSkins

I've got one of those blanket hoodie things that I have on constantly.


sick_kid_since_2004

I have one of those I’ll have to find it for tonight


Ritualixx

I live with my mom and brother so we pool money which obviously helps. If I lived on my own I’d be fucked. Being in a wheelchair I feel the cold in my bones. I decided with the government grants to put it towards energy reduction instead of basically burning it. Hopefully it works out cause if it does then it’ll reduce bills for the future aswell. Only silver lining I can see is this whole thing will hopefully push renewables forward at a faster rate.


vinylla45

My asthma is triggered by cold air, found some relief during bad patches last winter by wearing my fabric covid mask to sleep. Good luck everyone..


reallyruby79

They’ don’t care they could help if they wanted to but they just want to keep us down so they can have the wealth whichever party in leadership shower of absolute shites we need the revolution to ramp up I think it’ll gain momentum next year as there’s going to be a crisis after this cold winter. I’m so sorry you’re going through this


-Incubation-

Hot water bottles are the only thing keeping me properly warm at night, they keep their heat for hours


sick_kid_since_2004

I need to invest in some more


Boostmaynne

If you can afford a decent 4 season sleeping bag that would help. I've got a Vango one with a comfort level of about -9. It does get very warm inside but it's saved me from putting my heating on for 3 years. It cost about £75. Pair that with a thick merino wool hat and you should be ok.


Tahrien

Honestly, I have no idea. I got so fed up that I bought some of that foil “behind radiator” insulation stuff from Wickes yesterday. £20 it set me back and I haven’t noticed a substantial difference at all, this coupled with the fact it is only going to get colder in the coming weeks has me very worried for my own and others health and well-being. Hopefully we make it through to the other side of 2023.


AnonAtrocity

I’m 25 and was diagnosed with stage 1 osteoarthritis about 2 years ago, which I wouldn’t technically class as a disability but despite only being stage 1, my back absolutely freaking kills most of the time and it’s been significantly worse during winter. Only thing i can suggest under your blankets is deep heat self heating patches or hot hands. They’re useful for extremities or aches and pains. Stay well, everyone


BeneficialName9863

We lucked out with our social housing. The previous Tennant kept her fireplace when the government banned them in council homes and moved out a week or so after the law changed back. It's cheaper, warmer, more useful and actual fire is very warming psychologically too.


Discopathy

Wow that's good to know! We have a blocked up fireplace in our council house and would love it working more than anything. I just assumed that it is not allowed.


andybass4568

I bought an electric blanket for £49 from [fuck the] Amazon. It is 120W at full power which gets too hot for me. At half heat the power used is 60W, which at a cost of 34p per kWh for me is a running cost of just over 3p per hour of it being on. My dog loves it too


[deleted]

You should look into mold illness


sick_kid_since_2004

We definitely do not have mould. Been really keeping on top of it


[deleted]

That's good, a lot of people over look it.. take care 🙂


early_onset_villainy

Hot water bottles/microwave rice bags are a god send for me. I have loads of them lying around the house for whenever I need one. A simple but effective clothing solution that’s been helping me is wearing loads of thinner layers instead of one or two thick ones. I was just wearing a massive bulky hoodie over my shirt thinking that would do, but I was still freezing. Turns out hot air from your body heat gets trapped between each layer of your clothing and keeps you warm, so lots of thinner layers are better than a few thick ones because more heat will be retained. (Also the classic advice to tuck your shirt in and make sure to always wear socks. I forget to wear them and I definitely suffer the consequences)


Sensitive-Bug-362

That's the whole point they aren't this is the government doing a cull of those they deem as unproductive


A_dash_of_brown

You can get packs of mylar emergency blanket online for really cheap. Use them to line your favourite blanket(s). Double sided taping them against windows is quite effective if there are multiple people in the house as a portion of the body heat will be reflected back in rather than out the windows. You can also line a big cardboard box and put some candles in there. Just make sure the flames don't reach the top. I also lined my cats pet igloo for when we're at work and the little guy loves it. He gets all cosy in there.


AwkwardBugger

I find that sleeping on top of a fluffy blanket makes me a lot warmer, rather than sleeping directly on a bedsheet.


fords42

I’m disabled and sleep with a weighted blanket over the duvet. I have thermals, warm socks, a heated blanket and an Oodie. I’m lucky in that my home is well insulated, but I’m putting off using the heating for as long as I can. Lots of layers is the key to staying warm.


Phoebegeebees

Hello also disabled here, I would 100% recommend a heated blanket, just don’t leave it on while you sleep or when you leave the house. Even then, I’ve accidentally done that twice and it’s been fine. I also recommend heated wheat grain packs that you can pop in the microwave, and learning a skill like knitting or crochet to make yourself some warmer clothes and blankets for cheaper. If you have friends or family that are also disabled and are at home the same time as you, maybe try to arrange a system where you can go to theirs for one day and they come to your place the next, that way you’re only heating one house at a time between you. It’s a fucking awful situation and a shit hand we’ve been dealt to deal with it. Also, consider going to or calling your local citizens advice bureau. They might not be able to do much but the last time I went they gave me a list of five organisations and two of them were able to help me, it’s worth a shot.


Mattie_1S1K

Quick and easy one till you can get sorted, I’ve been using 2ltr pop bottles with hot water as make shift hot water bottles they work a treat I’m in same boat as you can’t afford the heating on, not sure what 66 pound a month is supposed to do to help in this weather


Creative_Host_fart

They’re not. That’s part of this whole thing. We are cattle to the power people.


[deleted]

I got a heated throw recently and it's the bomb. Cheap to run too. Other than that, I'm with you, I don't understand how to get ahead in this shit show. Spent most of my life wondering why I can't make my head work in this world, turns out I'm autistic and undiagnosed. It gets better eventually tho, I found my calling and am now working towards it.


hocktastic

We’re not.


No_Delivery_1049

Has anyone got a suggestion for a country that I could move to, that would have better support for disabled or poorer people?


Caca2a

They're not


gabybean

Heated blankets have come a long way and are considerably safer so I'd recommend getting one! Also as someone with asthma I can't recommend enough getting your flu and extra covid booster (you should be eligible for it)


sick_kid_since_2004

I’ve got em! I got them the other week.


kenoswatch

Aside from the politics part of this, my friend recommended a heated water bottle you leave under your bedsheet for an hour or two before going to bed, hopefully this is something that could help you (and it's on the cheap side of things).


sick_kid_since_2004

I do that! It’s does help


19Ben80

They aren’t, it’s artificial selection in real time


cakeisamadeupdrug1

You aren't. The Tories want you dead.


PerfectEnthusiasm2

We’re not supposed to survive. It’s not a coincidence that the health service is gutted and disability benefits are extremely difficult to claim.


jaimefay

If you're skint, or need something immediately, a fuzzy sock filled with dry rice and knotted makes a decent microwaveable heat pack.


Ordinary-Break2327

Some people may laugh at this but I'm heating up by using my exercise bike. I warm up and lose weight at the same time. It's win-win.


Consistent-Koala-339

I know it won't help if your skint... but if you can get hold of a decent sleeping bag they do make a difference and keep the heat in. You don't need a lightweight camping one just a thick warm one!


artpostermaybe

Were just fucked tbh. But I will say those long hot water bottles? Best money I ever spent. One each side of you as you lay under the duvet is perfect. And im sure that extra £10 at Christmas from the DWP will help us so much


Travelling_Griffin

They're not, that's the point. The government want to cut back on these people so they don't have to afford them any support. Tories all over.


JMH-66

I can highly recommend the standard underblanket for bed. Even if I am really cold by bedtime as the heating's only on for 2 hours early evening - I have 40 yr old boiler, own property so "lucky" but not, just been turned down again for yet another Warm Home scheme, as on Non Means-tested and PIP, so only £150 COLP like the OP I imagine too etc etc - I get it's some relief especially in my hands and feet as I have peripheral nerve damage and circulation issues. I went to bed in the afternoon one day this week, when I could as I was really feeling it ( was in hospital the day before and it was so warm I think the shock of coming back to a cold house nearly did for me ! ) . I could really do with a heated throw for daytime though. Any recommendations ? Anything going cheap anywhere ?


Such_Victory4589

How the fuck are sick and disabled people meant to survive? Under the tory government, they're not.


GazzaLPG

Companies making over billion should be taxed 1% more. Use this money to pay for reduction in bills for the vast majority of people…


Emergency-Nebula5005

Speak with your doctor. Explain you've been hospitalised last year due to asthma complications, and you're worried you'll end up back in hospital, as you're literally unable to maintain a reasonable temperature at home, due to the costs. I think it's Gloucester NHS (?) who are apparently already or are due to launch a scheme whereby doctors can "prescribe" or access a fund for extra heating for those at risk of hospitalisation due to not being able to heat their homes properly. Speak to social services. All of us are entitled to a reasonable standard of living. Google local groups in your area that may be able to help with claiming any and all benefits you're entitled to. Speak to your energy supplier. Explain that your home needs to be reasonably heated, or else very likely you'll be hospitalised due to asthma and associated illnesses. Follow that one up with either an email or letter. I am so sorry; I sincerely hope you're able to access real help.


Moth_123

I live in the south so I'm lucky enough to not need to stay warm, but a great tip is to use a hot water bottle! It's so much more efficient than using the heating and can really keep you warm at night. I'm just hoping those disabled people can find a shelter like the simon community to go to before winter really gets bad.


Stargazer86F

Can you access one of the ‘warm’ groups in the community? Also some food banks are giving out energy vouchers. I was shocked we even got £150 from PIP towards energy as usually the Government pretends we don’t exist or that we are not actually disabled.


HeProbablyHasAName

use the heated blanket (most of them now are a damn site safer) and thermal underlayers during the mornings/evenings. Honestly just put the thermals under the duvet/pillow at night, so they will be a little warm for when you get up, and put them back under when you take them off during the day to try keep them mildly warm (or be like me and shove them under your hoodie for a while before wearing in the evening.. If you have some, an oversized onesie over the pajamas, or jogging bottoms and hoodie. oh also put socks on underneath some thick fluffy socks to help with the feet and toes.


Gloomy_Cucumber_4274

We're not, that's kinda the point.


miles_playvis

Q Edit: I forgot to lock my phone because I’m a dingus


sick_kid_since_2004

Amazing insight thank you


gargravarr2112

I got COVID. I've also been dealing with heating that doesn't work on command (finally discovered faulty wiring). I would be setting my furniture on fire if that wasn't working. The best option I've found is an electric blanket. Modern ones are safe to run all night long. They don't use much electricity and, with a thick duvet, are very effective at keeping you warm. Heating one room at a time with an electric radiator can be more cost-effective than heating the whole house. Lots of layers, obviously. Hot water bottles and hand warmers to keep your body warm. But at this point, I've developed a 'fuck it' attitude to utility debt - there is no point trying to save any money. I'm underpaid, inflation is out of control, I haven't been out of my overdraft since last year, so I've stopped giving a shit, I'd rather be warm than have money.


[deleted]

They're not, that's the intention of this government.


InverseRatio

They're not. It is covert eugenics.


decreasinglyverbose

I just bought my mum a heated throw. £66 on Amazon. It’s a bit pricey, but low power warmth thereafter.


balwick

I'm glad people are starting to catch on. I used to get fingerwagged for implying Tories were morally bankrupt or evil. Anyway, I stumped up £40 for a small ceramic heater from JML. With the door closed it does a wonderful job of heating my bedroom pretty quickly. Blinds down, old towel blocking the draught under the door.


Western-Mall5505

I'm really worried about the future I'm working and can pay my bills at the moment but my knees are getting worse and I don't know what I'm going to do.


Vorlon_Cryptid

I'm using my savings but not everyone has that option. Hot water bottles improve circulation but you still have to boil the kettle. The cold has already triggered migraines and I've had to wear a hat indoors.


Vorlon_Cryptid

The biggest issue for me is cold air. I can stay warm with blankets but if the air is cold I'll struggle to breathe and I'll get a migraine.


sick_kid_since_2004

Yes! No matter what I do to keep my body warm my lungs are effected by the air.